Intervenção cognitivo-comportamental na ansiedade na performance musical em adolescentes

: um estudo piloto de natureza qualitativa

Abstract

Music Performance Anxiety (MPA) is a prevalent condition among adolescent musicians, with negative effects on psychological well-being, academic performance, and the continuation of artistic training. The scarcity of targeted interventions for this population justifies the present study. This qualitative study aimed to assess the applicability and impact of a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)-based intervention program for managing MPA in adolescents. Nine participants, aged between 12 and 15, from a music school in northern Portugal, took part in the study. The program consisted of ten weekly sessions of 90 minutes, integrating both theoretical and practical components. Strategies such as diaphragmatic breathing, cognitive restructuring, and emotional self-regulation training were implemented. Data collected indicate improvements in emotional self-regulation, cognitive flexibility, and perceived control during performance contexts, with evidence of generalization to the academic setting. Participants highlighted the value of a safe group environment, and the effectiveness of the strategies employed. Despite limitations inherent to the small sample size, the results suggest the efficacy of structured and early CBT-based interventions in managing MPA. Replication of the study with larger samples and the involvement of educational agents as facilitators in the intervention is recommended.

Date of Award	14 Jul 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Lurdes Veríssimo (Supervisor) & Pedro Dias (Co-Supervisor)